Apologizing is one of the most humbling acts a human being can do. It forces us to come face-to-face with our own shortcomings, our pride, and our need for grace. Yet, in Scripture, we find that apologizing isn’t a sign of weakness, but a mark of spiritual maturity. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible speaks to the power of confession, repentance, and reconciliation. These are not just moral principles — they are heart postures that align us with the very character of God.
God Himself models this desire for reconciliation. Though He has never sinned, He sent His Son to restore broken relationships with us, His creation. When we apologize, especially from a place of genuine repentance, we reflect the same love and humility that Christ demonstrated on the cross. Apologizing is not about saving face. It’s about softening the heart. It’s a step toward healing, toward unity, and toward living in truth. Whether it’s to God or another person, saying “I was wrong, I’m sorry” can be the beginning of transformation in any relationship.
If you’ve struggled to apologize, or if you’re unsure whether your apology matters anymore, let these Scriptures remind you: God honors a contrite heart. He draws near to those who are humble enough to admit when they’ve caused harm. These 35 verses will guide you through the spiritual depth of apologizing and why it matters to God.
Bible Verses About Apologizing
1. Proverbs 28:13
Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
2. James 5:16
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
3. 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
4. Matthew 5:23–24
If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift… first go and be reconciled.
5. Luke 17:3–4
If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.
6. Psalm 51:3–4
For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned…
7. Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance… forgive as the Lord forgave you.
8. Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
9. Ephesians 4:31–32
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other…
10. 2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people… will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways… I will forgive their sin.
11. Romans 12:18
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
12. Matthew 6:14–15
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
13. Isaiah 1:18
Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…
14. Psalm 32:5
Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.”
15. Acts 3:19
Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…
16. 1 Samuel 15:24
Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned. I violated the Lord’s command… I was afraid… so I gave in.”
17. Jonah 3:8–9
Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence… Who knows? God may yet relent.
18. Genesis 50:17
I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed…
19. Psalm 38:18
I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin.
20. Job 42:6
Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.
21. Luke 18:13
God, have mercy on me, a sinner.
22. Ezra 10:11
Now honor the Lord… and make confession to him…
23. Nehemiah 1:6
I confess the sins we Israelites… have committed against you.
24. Micah 7:18–19
You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy… You will again have compassion on us.
25. Psalm 130:3–4
If you, Lord, kept a record of sins… But with you there is forgiveness…
26. James 4:10
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
27. 2 Corinthians 7:10
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret…
28. Hosea 14:1–2
Return, Israel, to the Lord your God. Your sins have been your downfall! Take words with you and return to the Lord.
29. Matthew 18:15
If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you.
30. Leviticus 26:40–42
But if they will confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors… then I will remember my covenant.
31. Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.
32. Luke 23:34
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
33. Daniel 9:4–5
Lord, the great and awesome God… we have sinned and done wrong.
34. Zechariah 1:3
Return to me, declares the Lord Almighty, and I will return to you.
35. Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Our Thoughts On What the Bible Says About Apologizing
Apologizing, when done sincerely, reflects the heart of God. He does not require us to be perfect, but He does call us to be honest and humble. The act of saying “I’m sorry” is more than social etiquette — it is spiritual obedience. When we apologize and seek forgiveness, we are choosing love over pride and peace over strife. The Bible makes it clear that restoration begins with confession. Healing follows humility.
Relationships are mended when truth and grace meet. Apologizing is not about fixing everything instantly, but about opening the door for grace to work. The Scriptures above remind us that God does not despise a broken spirit. In fact, He draws near to it. If you’ve hurt someone, don’t delay. Make it right. And if you’ve been hurt, be ready to forgive as the Lord has forgiven you. There is power, healing, and holiness in saying the words “I was wrong. Please forgive me.”
Say This Prayer
Father, I come to You with a humble heart. I know I have made mistakes. I’ve hurt others with my words, my silence, or my actions. Please forgive me. Teach me how to make things right, how to walk in humility, and how to apologize with sincerity.
Help me let go of my pride and take responsibility for my part. I also ask for the strength to forgive those who’ve hurt me. Let my life reflect the love and grace You have shown me. Restore what has been broken, Lord, and make me an instrument of peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.